Gus Pete Mandrapilias

September 4, 2025

CHARLOTTE – Gus Pete Mandrapilias, 75, of Charlotte, NC, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Carmel Hills, surrounded by family.

Born June 29, 1950, in Karyae, Laconia, Greece, Gus immigrated to the United States with his family at age four, settling in Charlotte.  He built a lifelong career in the automotive business, eventually owning H & H Motor Company, which he later passed on to his son, Dean.

In 1977, Gus married Geary, and together they raised their children, Jeanne and Dean.  He loved traveling the world, making it to all seven continents, serving his church at Holy Trinity, and giving countless hours to scouting, where he earned numerous honors and mentored many young men.  Gus also nurtured unique passions, from a large antique sprinkler collection landing him in Southern Living magazine, to koi ponds, which he joyfully shared with others.

Gus is survived by his wife, Geary; daughter, Jeanne Drexler; son, Dean Mandrapilias and his wife, Meghan; grandchildren, Hudson and Sohayla Drexler, Norah and Meryl Mandrapilias; sisters, Irene Mandrapilias and Theoni Carter; brother, George Mandrapilias; nieces, Erin Carter and Adrienne Fuller; grandnephews, Dylan and Ethan Fuller; Godchildren Adrienne Pilz and Wesley Diamaduros, and many beloved aunts, uncles and cousins. Gus was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Toula Mandrapilias.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.  Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.  Gus requested scouts wear Class A uniforms and encouraged everyone to celebrate his life in color.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Gus to Holy Trinity Foundation, 600 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203; Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), 1410 E 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204; Parkinson’s Foundation, Wing Haven, 260 Ridgewood Avenue, Charlotte, NC, 28209; Via Health Partners, 7845 Little Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28226.

May his memory be eternal.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606.  Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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  • Melvin McIntosh

    Dean, your father was such a friend to me when he took care of my cars while I was serving as Associate Minister at Myers Park United Methodist Church from 1982 until 1999. He went beyond what was required and always did what was given in love and caring! He even introduced me to you once when he had you at the shop on South Boulevard when you were quite young. I also appreciate the service you have given to my car at your location on Wilkinson Boulevard at least twice, since my wife and I moved to Aldersgate Retirement Community several years ago. I pray that God’s greatest comfort will be with you and all your family! Melvin McIntosh ><}}}*>

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  • Nata Sussman and Nela

    Our deepest condolences to you and your family our love and prayers for loss of your beloved father.

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  • Sia Georgiou

    May his memory be eternal. Prayers for the family during this difficult time. A great man, honest and very trust worthy. He worked on my car many times on South blvd.

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  • Jeanie Nikopoulos

    Geary and family, George and I were so sorry to hear of the passing of Gus,May he rest in peace.
    Our thoughts and prays rare with you.✝️??

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  • Dusty Sparks

    The Legend of Scouting’s Order of the Arrow says: “he who serves his fellow, is of all his fellows greatest.” Gus did this every day of his life!! Condolences Geary and family and to all who benefitted from his kindness, friendship and sage patient wisdom!!

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  • Tina Sotiropoulos

    Was an awesome machanic and a good soul! May his memory be eternal! My condolences to his family! May his memory be eternal!

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  • Dick Parks

    I remember when I first met Gus, we both were on the Scout council training committee. He would always greet you with a hand shake and a smile. A true gentleman. We will miss you brother. Our prayers are with the family and all who had the privilege to know Gus.

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  • David and Lorraine Reynolds

    Our condolences to the Mandrapilias family. They have always been so kind to us and we are praying for them in their time of grief and loss.

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  • Judy and Richard Bailey

    Rich’s and I want to express our sympathy and caring for the family .

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  • Judy and Richard Bailey

    Rich and I are so sorry for your loss and hope your memories sustain you in your grief.

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